Louisiana Hunting & Fishing Laws

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A hunter's or fisherman’s dream vacation might just be found in the state of Louisiana. Not only can you enjoy a diverse range of food and drink options, but also you can legally hunt a wide variety of game. However, like any other state, Louisiana does have a set of hunting and fishing laws in place; failure to adhere to the regulations can turn your vacation into a potentially unpleasant and expensive nightmare. Fortunately, you can virtually eliminate your risk of hunting and fishing legal snags by reviewing applicable Louisiana laws and applying for your desired permit(s) before you trek into the great wide open.

Recreational Fishing Licensing Basics

Louisiana restaurants serve plenty of fish, ranging from Cajun catfish to classic Southern specialties such as fried flounder. However, you probably want to do more than simply sit in a restaurant and eat fish during your vacation. Louisiana allows a number of recreational fishing opportunities. Also, if you’re a frequent visitor to the state, there's no need to continually purchase new fishing licenses; one fishing license purchase in Louisiana covers you for an entire year of outdoor adventures. Once you’re legally licensed to fish, use a variety of implements while seeking to catch and perhaps even later cook Louisiana fish. Legal implements besides the tried-and-true fishing pole include frog gigs/catchers, scuba lines, scuba gear and bow and arrows.

Typical Weather

Louisiana in

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The temperature in Louisiana in December tends to be very predictable, so you can generally count on the forecast and travel light.

The temperature in Louisiana in December is somewhat unpredictable, so be on the safe side and prepare for a variety of conditions.

The temperature in Louisiana in December is highly unpredictable, so use the forecast as a guide, but be ready for anything!

Black Bear Hunting Laws

Hunting laws protect the endangered Louisiana black bear; penalties for even inadvertently violating existing laws are potentially stiff, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website. Sometimes hunters unintentionally kill a black bear thinking it is a feral hog, as these animals are similar in appearance; be careful that this is not you as harming or killing a Louisiana black bear can lead to a six month jail sentence and up to $50,000 in fines. Killing a Louisiana black bear is also a violation of the federal Endangered Species Act.

Turkey Hunting Regulations

Turkey hunting regulations in Louisiana are also potentially strict towards those enjoying the pursuit and bagging of wild turkeys. In 2010, legal turkey hunting could only occur during select parts of March and April. Also, you can only legally bag one turkey per day and are limited to two turkey kills per hunting season. Legal shooting times begin at 30 minutes before sunrise and end at 30 minutes after sunset. Also, keep in mind that not every part of Louisiana allows turkey hunting during all parts of each year’s season. Check with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries during your general licensing application process to find out what dates apply to legal turkey hunting near your vacation destination.

About the Author

Stephanie Mojica has been a journalist since 1997 and currently works as a full-time reporter at the daily newspaper "The Advocate-Messenger" in Kentucky. Her articles have also appeared in newspapers such as "The Philadelphia Inquirer" and "The Virginian-Pilot," as well as several online publications. She holds a bachelor's degree from Athabasca University.